Welcome to a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India! If you're craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, the Chole Masala Chickpea Curry is your ticket to satisfaction. This hearty and aromatic curry, made with tender chickpeas and a medley of spices, is not just a meal; it's an experience that you won't want to miss. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Ready to impress your loved ones with your cooking skills? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas that have been soaked overnight. If using canned chickpeas, rinse thoroughly.
- In a pressure cooker or large pot, add the soaked chickpeas with enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Cook until the chickpeas are soft and tender, approximately 15-20 minutes in a pressure cooker or 45-60 minutes in a regular pot.
- Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter and release their aromatic oils for about 30 seconds.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Incorporate ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook the mixture until the oil starts to separate from the masala, indicating the tomatoes are well-cooked.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Add the cooked chickpeas along with some of their cooking liquid. Simmer the curry on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Mash a few chickpeas against the side of the pan to thicken the gravy and create a richer texture.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more chickpea cooking liquid if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning as required.
- Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves just before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal.
Tips
- Soaking Chickpeas: For the best texture, soak your chickpeas overnight. This not only helps them cook faster but also makes them easier to digest.
- Pressure Cooking: If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce cooking time for the chickpeas. Just ensure they are soft and tender before proceeding with the recipe.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the number of green chilies based on your heat preference. For a milder version, you can reduce or omit them altogether.
- Perfecting the Masala: Allow the onion and tomato mixture to cook until the oil separates. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor base for your curry.
- Thickening the Gravy: For a thicker gravy, mash a few chickpeas against the side of the pan. This adds creaminess without the need for additional ingredients.
- Serving Suggestions: Chole Masala pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, fluffy naan, or warm roti. Don’t forget a side of yogurt or salad for a refreshing contrast!
- Garnishing: Fresh coriander not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor. Add it just before serving for the best taste.With these tips, you're all set to create a mouthwatering Chole Masala that will have everyone coming back for more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
